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Free tax software, support available for Soldiers, Families

WASHINGTON -- With the tax season upon us, service members and their families can access free tax-filing software and consultations to help them navigate the task of submitting their annual taxes.

Military members and their families can visit the Military OneSource website or call 1-800-342-9647 for the no-cost "MilTax" software, explained Erika Slaton, a program analyst with Military OneSource.

The Defense Department recognizes that military members and their families have unique filing situations with deployments, relocations and various deductions and credits, she said.

The MilTax software, previously known as "Military OneSource Tax Services," was created with the military situation in mind, Slaton said.

EXPERT TAX CONSULTANTS READY TO HELP

Tax consultants are available via phone through Military OneSource, Slaton said. In-person tax filing assistance can be accessed at military installations at a Volunteer Income Tax Assistance location.

The tax consultants can inform eligible users about the unique tax benefits available to service members and their families, Slaton said.

Tax laws change each year, Slaton pointed out, adding MilTax consultants are experts on the nuances of the law and can help users get the tax credits they earned and deserve.

"That's why it's such a great program because it is a program that is specifically designed for those unique military tax situations," she said.

MilTax is confidential and secure, Slaton said. The online filing program allows users to submit a federal return and up to three state tax returns, she said.

Those eligible for MilTax include members of the Air Force, Army, Navy, Marines and National Guard. Coast Guardsmen serving under Title 10 authority are entitled to the services as well. Retired and honorably discharged members are authorized for up to 180 days past their separation. Spouses, dependent children and survivors are able to use the free services as well.

Calculations are backed by a 100-percent accuracy guarantee, Slaton said.

The deadline to file taxes this year is Tuesday, April 18. The traditional tax deadline day is April 15, but it falls on a Saturday this year, and the following Monday, April 17, is Emancipation Day, in the District of Columbia -- a legal holiday -- according to the IRS.

CALL, CLICK, CONNECT

Slaton wants the military community to know about the range of services and resources available at no cost through the Defense Department-funded Military OneSource, including services and resources related to health, family relationships, education, employment, financial issues, deployments and transitions.

Military members and their families, she said, can "call, click and connect today" to access these services.

"We encourage service members and their families to learn more about Military OneSource, MilTax and all of the services that are available because it is a benefit that they deserve," she said.

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